Gavin Hunt warns Given Msimango needs time to reach full fitness at Stellenbosch FC

Stellenbosch FC head coach Gavin Hunt says Given Msimango still has work to do before he reaches full match fitness, despite being encouraged by the defender’s debut in the club’s goalless draw with Durban City.

Msimango made his first appearance for Stellenbosch on Tuesday evening, starting in the 0-0 Betway Premiership encounter at Chatsworth Stadium. The result earned Stellenbosch their second draw of the league campaign, but left the Western Cape side with only one win from their opening five matches.

Their record now stands at two defeats, two draws and one victory.

Hunt was satisfied with Msimango’s contribution in his first outing for the club and believes the centre-back can become an important player for Stellenbosch. However, the manager acknowledged that the defender arrived short of the physical condition required for regular competitive football.

The Stellenbosch head coach also explained that he managed Msimango’s involvement carefully during the closing stages of the match to avoid placing unnecessary demands on him.

“I should have protected him in the last 20 minutes, which I did,” said Hunt.

“He did well, I believe he was good, he’ll be good for us. But obviously he hasn’t been fit. He came here very unfit.”

Msimango will now continue working towards his best level as Stellenbosch prepare for their next Betway Premiership fixture against Sekhukhune United on 11 September.

The draw with Durban City extended Stellenbosch’s mixed start to the season. Although the side avoided a third defeat, they have collected just five points from their first five league matches, with their only victory coming before Tuesday’s stalemate.

Hunt’s comments underline the importance of managing Msimango’s return to full fitness while the club seek greater consistency in the league. The defender’s debut nevertheless provided a positive sign for Stellenbosch, with the coach indicating that he expects Msimango to make a strong contribution once he is physically ready.

The match at Chatsworth Stadium was the latest test for Stellenbosch during the opening phase of the Betway Premiership campaign. Their upcoming meeting with Sekhukhune United will provide another opportunity to improve their position after a start featuring one win, two draws and two losses.

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